CHENNAI: The National Testing Agency (NTA) on Thursday issued an advisory assuring candidates that biometric verification issues will not prevent them from appearing for the NEET (UG) 2026 examination, scheduled for May 3. It also issued guidelines for appearing at the exam.
"Candidates are advised to adhere to the prescribed dress code and report well in advance to facilitate smooth frisking," the NTA said.
In a public notice, the agency stated that the aspirants will be allowed to carry transparent water bottles, wear articles of faith, and are subject to early reporting at centres. While light clothing has been recommended, candidates may wear full-sleeved or woollen clothing if required, with prior reporting, to avoid delays during security checks.
Slippers or low-heeled footwear have been listed as the preferred option. The NTA said adherence to these norms would ensure seamless conduct of the examination, advising students to reach centres early and cooperate with staff.
The biometric verification move comes amid concerns over last-mile technical disruptions, with the NTA aiming for a smooth and fair examination process, without undue stress on candidates.
The agency said candidates facing biometric authentication failures due to device malfunction, poor data quality, connectivity issues with UIDAI, or physical inability to provide biometric data will still be permitted to enter the examination hall. "However, such candidates will be required to submit a written undertaking in the prescribed format, which will be made available at the examination centre," the NTA said.
The agency reiterated that biometric verification remains mandatory after frisking, but clarified that procedural lapses will not disadvantage candidates.
Importantly, the NTA emphasised that candidates will not be disturbed during the examination hours from 2 pm to 5 pm. For PwD and PwBD candidates, this protection extends up to 6 pm, where applicable.